Measles Services & Treatments

OU Health is closely monitoring a developing measles situation in Oklahoma. Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through coughs, sneezes, and even lingering air droplets. While the disease was once considered eliminated in the U.S., cases have been increasing due to lower vaccination rates and travel-related exposures. The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) is actively tracking cases and providing updates.

If You or a Loved One is Experiencing Symptoms

If you think you’ve been exposed or are experiencing symptoms — such as fever, cough, runny nose, and a red rash:

• Call ahead to your primary care doctor immediately or do a telehealth visit

  • Get emergency care if your child has:

    • A fever higher than 105°F

    • Trouble breathing

    • A severe headache

    • Confusion or clumsiness

• If you go to the doctor or an ER
  • Call ahead if you can (OU Health ER and Urgent Care locations and contacts)
  • Cover you or your loved one's nose and mouth with a mask or safely use a blanket over a carrying seat for infants
  • OU Health locations will be helping patients with potential measles at our entrances. Follow any signage instructions at entrances to help eliminate contact with others

Symptoms and Complications

What are the Symptoms of Measles?

Symptoms of measles include:

• Fever: Often high and persistent
• Dry cough: A common early symptom
• Runny nose: Often with sneezing
• Conjunctivitis: Swollen and red eyes
• Rash: A red-brown skin rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body
• Koplik's spots: Tiny white spots inside the mouth
• General malaise: Feeling tired and unwell
• Loss of appetite: Reduced desire to eat
• Photophobia: Sensitivity to light

Learn more about who is at risk for measles and the complication of measles.

What You Can Do

• Get vaccinated – The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective
• Know the symptoms – Early detection helps prevent outbreaks
• Stay informed – Follow official health updates